February 15, 2025 – The European Council of Paint, Printing Ink, and Artist’s Colours Manufacturers (CEPE) has expressed disappointment over the European Commission’s decision to impose anti-dumping duties on imports of titanium dioxide (TiO2) from China, according to recent reports in overseas media. In an interview, CEPE’s Managing Director, Christel Davidson, elaborated on the association’s stance and concerns regarding the regulation.
Davidson noted that although the European Commission has approved the use of TiO2 for the production of white inks for printing, and the anti-dumping duties will not be applied retroactively, CEPE remains dissatisfied with certain aspects of the regulation. She pointed out that the regulation fails to adequately consider the potential impact of these tariffs on the competitiveness of downstream users of TiO2, particularly paint manufacturers. She emphasized that small enterprises catering to the EU local market will be the most severely affected by this decision.
According to sources from the Color Masterbatch Industry Network, CEPE is also concerned that the increase in production costs for EU manufacturers in Europe could lead to a surge of cheap coatings produced with Chinese TiO2 from outside the EU. These imported coatings are not subject to anti-dumping duties, placing EU paint manufacturers at a disadvantage in the global market. In contrast, manufacturers in other regions can continue to source TiO2 from China at lower prices and sell their products in the EU market.
In response to this situation, Davidson revealed CEPE’s next steps. She stated that the association will work with national associations to closely monitor imports of coatings and printing inks from outside the EU. Additionally, given the ongoing anti-dumping proceedings on other products, such as epoxy resins, and the potential increase in similar cases in the future, CEPE is considering organizing a webinar for its members. This webinar will particularly focus on small enterprises, aiming to enhance their understanding of how to engage in the anti-dumping process as early as possible.
When asked about possible measures at the current stage, Davidson said that once anti-dumping measures are implemented, they are typically in effect for five years, limiting what can be done at this point. However, in theory, exporters, importers, or EU producers can request an interim review one year after the measures come into force. Furthermore, member states or the European Commission can also initiate an interim review at any time. An interim review can be either a full review, covering aspects such as dumping, injury, and EU interest, or a partial review, focusing on specific aspects like dumping.